Fasting, the voluntary abstinence from food for varying periods, has been practiced for centuries across different cultures for religious, health, and philosophical reasons. Its popularity surged in the early 20th century, not only as a spiritual discipline but also as a purported cure-all for numerous ailments. This period in history saw the rise of fasting advocates like Dr. Edward Dewey and Linda Hazard, whose work dramatically shaped public perceptions of fasting, often with dire consequences.

Dr. Edward Dewey and the Promotion of Therapeutic Fasting

Dr. Edward Hooker Dewey, a prominent figure in the early 20th century, was a staunch advocate of therapeutic fasting. His book, The No-Breakfast Plan and the Fasting-Cure, published in 1900, argued that omitting breakfast could lead to better health and vitality. Dewey’s theory was grounded in the belief that overeating was the root of many health problems, and fasting could be the remedy. He documented cases where patients experienced marked improvements in health by adopting his fasting protocols, which sometimes involved prolonged periods without food. Dewey’s ideas gained considerable traction, influencing many to adopt fasting as a lifestyle choice.

Linda Hazard and the Shadow over Fasting

Linda Hazard, an unlicensed doctor, took fasting to an extreme with her practice in Washington state. Hazard’s approach was radical and dangerous, often leading to severe health deterioration. Her treatment was based on the notion that fasting could cleanse the body of toxins and cure diseases. In contrast to Dewey’s somewhat moderated stance, Hazard’s methods involved prolonged and unsupervised fasts, accompanied by rigorous and often painful physical therapies.

One of the most tragic cases associated with Hazard was that of the British sisters, Claire and Dora Williamson. In 1911, they sought Hazard’s help for what they believed would be a restorative health treatment. The sisters underwent a severe fasting regimen prescribed by Hazard that led to catastrophic results. Claire Williamson’s health deteriorated rapidly, ultimately leading to her death due to starvation and the harsh treatments administered as part of the fast. The case gained international attention and highlighted the extreme dangers of unsupervised fasting practices. Linda Hazard was eventually convicted of manslaughter, underscoring the fatal risks associated with her fasting protocol.

The Legacy and Lessons

The contrasting approaches of Dewey and Hazard to fasting and their outcomes highlight a significant period in the history of dietary practices. While Dewey’s methods suggested some level of moderation, Hazard’s extreme practices served as a grim reminder of the potential dangers. The death of Claire Williamson brought to light the critical need for medical supervision and regulatory oversight in health practices involving fasting.

Today, fasting continues to be a popular health trend, supported by new research into its potential benefits, including improved metabolic health, weight loss, and even longevity. However, the lessons from the early 20th century remain pertinent. Modern fasting practices such as intermittent fasting are often undertaken with a greater emphasis on safety and under more scientifically controlled conditions, reflecting an evolved understanding of fasting’s physiological impacts.

The historical perspective on fasting from figures like Dewey and Hazard provides valuable insights into the development of fasting as a health practice. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the limits of fasting and the importance of informed, supervised implementation, especially when used for health recovery and disease treatment. As fasting continues to be explored for its health benefits, the echoes of its past help shape a safer approach to harnessing its potential.